Scientist​/Associate; Ph.D

Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Polymer Scientist for our Polymers & Chemistry Practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role you will work as part of an interdisciplinary team contributing to a diverse set of projects from industries such as pharmaceutical, medical device, consumer products, construction, infrastructure and automotive. This position requires some travel and will involve collaborating with scientists and engineers from other Exponent offices and practices.

A long‑term goal for a successful candidate will be to develop business by obtaining new projects and bringing new clients to the firm.

• Inspecting, testing and analyzing various polymeric materials to assess their specifications and/or reliability in a variety of applications from a wide range of industries
• Performing root cause investigations on failing or underperforming materials/components by scientifically examining the development, manufacturing or end‑use environment of products specified for use in the construction, medical device, consumer electronics, and consumer products
• Analyzing information and conveying technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, law, and industry, as well as communicating testing rationale in the context of product development, product defect claims, and intellectual property disputes

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Well‑developed understanding of polymer and materials characterization
• Knowledge of polymer bulk physical properties, structure‑property relations, mechanics, polymer fracture analysis, and/or polymer processing preferred
• Strong background and hands‑on experience in polymer/chemical characterization techniques, such as FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, and GPC. Experience characterizing non‑conductive materials using electron microscopy (SEM) is a plus
• Experience testing and characterizing elastomer materials preferred
• Experience with the design, assembly, and execution of novel or non‑standard testing
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Must be able to convey complex technical information to individuals in engineering, business, legal and related industries
• Ability to work within project teams with strong desire to contribute; have potential for technical and project managerial leadership
• Superior problem‑solving abilities
• Strong educational and publication credentials
• This is a Menlo Park, CA based position. The successful applicant must live in (or be willing to relocate to) the Menlo Park, CA area and be enthusiastic about regularly working in the office
• Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi‑weekly bonuses for high‑intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

USD $ - USD $ /Yr.

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.

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